MUSKOKA TOP LIFESTYLE GUIDE

SUSAN BROWN’S MUSKOKA GUIDE THE VERY BEST OF COTTAGE COUNTRY

Lake of Bays and Huntsville are the perfect destinations from which to explore everything that’s great about Muskoka.

From here you’re an easy drive to world-class resorts such as Deerhurst, famous as the site of Canada’s G8 summit of world leaders in 2010, as well as some of the best open water for boats and personal watercraft. Those who enjoy paddling canoes and kayaks are also spoilt for choice, thanks in particular to the proximity of Ontario’s largest provincially protected wilderness, Algonquin Park, which offers an endless variety of routes and overnight camping opportunities.

The area boasts numerous excellent attractions, too. Perhaps the most famous is the RMS Segwun, North America’s oldest still-operating steamship. Based in the town of Gravenhurst – the ‘Gateway to Muskoka’ – a great time to visit this wonderful old vessel is during the always fun Antique and Classic Boat Show, which draws hundreds of elegant old wooden boats from across the US and Canada.

And, of course, Lake of Bays has its own famous ship: the SS Bigwin, once the property of Bigwin Island, now offers sightseeing trips around the lake.
Equally famous is Santa’s Village in Bracebridge, a fun family getaway that’s been drawing the crowds to the summer vacation home of old St Nick for over 60 years now.

And then of course there’s Muskoka’s superb shopping. Any seasoned shopper to the region knows by heart the key places to pick up great souvenirs, gifts and clothing, including Robinsons General Store in Dorset, Muskoka Bear Wear (five locations, including Huntsville), Algonquin Outfitters (also in Huntsville and other locales) and, of course, Yummies in a Jar for sweet or savoury treats.

To learn more of Susan’s favourite things in cottage country, be sure to explore her frequently updated Muskoka Guide.

Brace For Winter! How to Survive the Colder Months

Blog by Susan Brown | December 9th, 2014

Winters can be brutal, unpredictable and dangerous. To make sure that you and your cottage remain safe this season, here’s a quick round-up of tips from Environment Canada. In case of a blizzard or storm, you should definitely keep this in mind.

Basic Guidelines: Staying Warm

When it comes to surviving the winter, here are the basic guidelines you can follow to help you stay warm and avoid the risk of hypothermia and other health risks that come with being exposed to extremely cold temperatures for too long.

Suit up. You can start by wearing multiple layers of loose fitting clothing that will effectively trap your body heat while still allowing air to circulate. When going outside, make sure to wear water-repellant and tightly woven clothing to protect yourself from moisture.

Protect your head. A lot of body heat is expelled through the head, so wear scarves or hats to maintain body heat. Also, instead of wearing gloves, wear mittens – they are more effective at keeping your handswarm.

Have an emergency kit. Your emergency kit should contain the following items:

Battery powered flashlights + extra batteries

Ready-to-eat food

Bottles of Water

Emergency tools

First aid Kit

Blankets

Extra clothing

Toiletries

Prepare your transportation. Keep the gas tank full and make sure you have enough cash on hand in case ATMs break down in case of a power outage.

Stay updated. You can always tune in to Environment Canada’s Weatheradio service for the latest news and updates.

In the event of a blizzard

Stay home and wait for news updates.

If you must go outside, dress appropriately. Due to the strong winds, it is imperative that you tie yourself to your door or any object that is securely attached to your home so as to not get carried away by the wind.

Conserve your energy. Take your time when doing tasks. It is absolutely necessary to stay alert and awake in case of an emergency, especially during a blizzard.